Hi-Vis Colours Explained: Which Ones Work Best in Different Environments?
It’s Not Just About Looking Bright
Hi-Vis clothing is a requirement on most Aussie worksites — but not all Hi-Vis is the same. While it’s designed to make you stand out, the colour you wear matters more than you might think.
The background around you, the light on site, and even the time of day all impact how visible you actually are. That’s why choosing between orange and yellow-green isn’t just a personal preference — it’s a safety decision.
Orange Hi-Vis – Best for Bushland, Forestry and Rural Sites
Orange stands out against trees, dirt, and scrub — which makes it ideal for:
- Forestry and land clearing crews
- Surveyors working in regional areas
- Bushfire recovery and rural tradies
Why it works: Orange doesn’t blend into the natural environment. It pops against greens and browns, so you’re easier to spot — especially from a distance.
Yellow-Green Hi-Vis – Best for Roads, Warehouses and Urban Sites
Yellow-green is great when you’re around concrete, machinery and artificial lights. It’s the go-to for:
- Traffic control and roadworks
- Warehouse and logistics jobs
- Construction in built-up areas
Why it works: It reacts well with headlights and floodlights. And on grey backgrounds like asphalt and steel, it’s harder to miss.
Which Colour Should You Be Wearing?
Here’s a simple guide based on where you work:
| Worksite Type | Recommended Hi-Vis |
|---|---|
| Forestry / Bushland | Orange |
| Traffic / Roadside | Yellow-Green |
| Indoor Warehousing | Yellow-Green |
| Regional Infrastructure | Orange or Yellow |
If you’re working nights or in low light, reflective tape is a must. And for jobs that run across both day and night shifts, you’ll want combined D/N compliant workwear.
Browse Day/Night Compliant Hi-Vis
Meeting Australian Safety Standards
In Australia, your Hi-Vis needs to comply with AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standards. Look for garments labelled:
- Class D – Day use only
- Class N – Night use only
- Class D/N – Day and night use
Everything we stock at Workstitch meets these standards, so you’re always covered — whether you're in the city or out bush.
Shop Certified Hi-Vis Workwear Now
Final Word
The colour you wear on site shouldn’t be a guessing game. Your visibility matters — not just for safety, but for peace of mind when you’re working around machinery, traffic, or in remote areas.
Choose Hi-Vis that suits your environment, keeps you compliant, and helps you get home safe at the end of the day.
